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Associate in Law Enforcement / Security

Career summary: Police and Detectives

Average Salary

$56,980

National Average, Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Career Outlook

Good

5% job growth by 2022, which is below average

Earn a degree in law enforcement / security from an accredited college

One of the best ways to prepare for a career in law enforcement / security is through a college education. An Associate will help you develop entry level skills, general law enforcement / security know how and the basic law enforcement / security experience you need to start your career off right.
You may also consider a Bachelor's in Law Enforcement / Security to help you take your education and career to the next level.
Please select law enforcement / security school below.

Overview

Why should I get a law enforcement education?

A post-high school education will give you a boost in the law enforcement field. While many jobs may not require it, a criminal justice or related degree can be useful, and give you a higher earning potential. You may consider a career in law enforcement and security if you want to preserve public safety or find and arrest criminals. As a nature lover and environmentalist, you may enjoy working as a game warden or National Park Ranger. Perhaps you’d prefer the investigation route: sleuthing for traces of evidence to prove criminal acts were committed. Any of these motivations can lead you to law enforcement.

Salary

How much will I make?

In law enforcement, a typical salary is in the $50,000 range. Police, patrol officers, and detectives make an average of $55,620. Correctional officers are paid between $31,140 and $52,530. Security guards average $26,780. As a game warden, you could expect around $49,730 annually. Working for the FBI or CIA can lead you to a paycheck anywhere from $61,100 to $149,800.

Career Outlook

How is the job market?

The outlook is favorable, especially if you’re well qualified. If you’re bilingual, have military experience, study police science, and have other outstanding proficiencies, you will have a better chance. Most careers in law enforcement have moderate to strong competition.

Career Path

What skills do I need?

You should be socially, psychologically, and physically healthy; know and interpret laws; and sometimes make pressured judgement calls. Organization may be important. In some jobs, you’ll be required to file reports, fill out paperwork, and take records for court evidence. You’ll deal with many different kinds of people. Expect to deal with a lot of stressful and hazardous situations. College education and experience in the field will also be important to build on your skills and knowledge.

What classes and experience will I need for a career in law enforcement?

Many positions will only require a high school diploma or two-year degree. You can major in criminal justice ad In college, your required courses will teach you the theories and principles of criminal justice, critical thinking, leadership and managerial skills, etc. Some of the classes may be criminology, public safety, terrorism, psychology, corrections, and computer crime. Physical education, military experience, and foreign language will be beneficial to you also, even if not mandatory. You’ll likely need to have classtime and practical training at the academy or on the job, and possibly meet state licensure requirements.

Learning Format

Location

Law Enforcement / Security Schools (3)

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